Acute Coronary Syndrome

Definition

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a set of features related to poor blood flow to the heart muscle that leads to a heart attack. This results in chest pain or
angina
pectoris. ACS is a serious, life-threatening condition. If you think you have ACS, seek emergency medical treatment.

Causes

ACS is caused by a sudden blockage of the coronary arteries. These blood vessels carry blood to the heart muscle. The blood flow to the heart muscle is either greatly reduced or completely blocked. This leads to heart muscle damage or death from a heart attack.

The narrowing most often happens from years of plaque buildup in an artery. This is called
atherosclerosis. Blood clots may often cause the narrowing arteries.

Anti-ischemic drugs, such as nitroglycerin are used to help relieve chest pain.

Beta blockers are given to slow the heart rate so it does not use too much energy.

Thrombolytic drugs are used to dissolve blood clots. When given soon after a heart attack begins, these drugs can limit or prevent permanent damage to the heart. To be most effective, they need to be given within one hour after the start of heart attack symptoms.

Platelet inhibitors to keep the blockage from getting worse.

Angioplasty—a catheter is inserted into a blocked artery. A balloon is inflated and deflated. This will allow blood to flow again. A stent may be placed to prop the artery open.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Heart attack: Tips for recovering and staying well. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/heart-attack/treatment/tips-for-recovering-and-staying-well.html. Updated March 2014. Accessed August 11, 2014.

What is angina? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Angina/Angina%5FTreatments.html. Updated June 1, 2011. Accessed August 11, 2014.